Kyoto is hosting a Japanese Halloween with yokai monsters from traditional folklore

Time Out

2 days ago

Halloween is a big deal in Japan, and theme parks across the country are jumping on the bandwagon with spooky events designed to lure thrill-seekers. Attractions like Osaka's Universal Studios Japan and Tokyo Disney Resort will surely transform their beloved characters into zombies, skeletons and other eerie creatures of the night.
But if you prefer a more uniquely Japanese take on Halloween, Toei Kyoto Studio Park has just the thing. From September 13 to November 30, the park will host the Kaikai Yokai Festival, an atmospheric spook fest inspired by Japanese folklore.
According to the festival's backstory, yokai, or supernatural creatures from old myths, once roamed the country. But as modernisation has erased their old haunts, the yokai have taken refuge in Toei Kyoto Studio Park, a nostalgic theme park (and occasional filming location for period dramas) that is a meticulous recreation of an Edo-period (1603–1868) small town.
At the festival, you'll find yokai roaming the streets – feel free to interact and take photos with them. There's a dedicated exhibition exploring yokai lore, an artisanal market featuring artworks and souvenirs inspired by these mythical creatures, old-school ghost story sessions that bring classic tales to life, and many more engaging activities.
The festival's highlight, however, is the Uzumasa Yokai Parade, a modern-day reenactment of the Hyakki Yagyo legend, in which a hundred yokai are said to have marched through Kyoto after dark during the Heian period. Now, you can witness this spectacle up close as a horde of monsters floods the park's retro streets.
It's eerie, whimsical and captivating all at once. This fascinating parade runs on weekends and public holidays, twice daily at 2.30pm and again at 6pm or 7pm, with occasional exceptions. At the halfway point, you can even join in the Kaikai Yokai Dance alongside the monsters.
This one-of-a-kind parade is included in the regular park admission. But for the full experience – including interacting with the yokai – opt for the Kaikai Yokai Festival Ticket with Merchandise. This comes with an exclusive yokai mask to help you blend in with the spirits. Prices are ¥3,900 for adults, ¥2,900 for high school students, and ¥2,700 for children aged 3 through elementary school.
For more details, check the festival website.